History, Culture, Nature and More in Granada
As the oldest colonial city in Nicaragua, Granada has a rich historical and cultural heritage and is set in the midst of spectacular natural beauty, making it a popular tourism destination. The tropical mild climate adds to the attraction of Granada and it is one of Nicaragua’s most visited cities. Parque Central, the city square, is the cultural and economic hub of Granada, and serves as a good base for exploring the city, with the must-see landmarks including the San Francisco Church and Museum, Xalteva Church, Plazuela de los Leones, Plaza de la Independencia, Guadalupe Church, La Merced Church, Fortin de San Pablo and the Episcopal Palace, with the museum, Mi Museo being one of the best museums in the country. The ChocoMuseo is also well worth visiting, and can include a tour to a cacao plantation.
Nicaragua is currently attracting a lot of interest as a retirement destination for people from the United States, Canada, Spain, Italy, Germany, Austria, France and the Netherlands, with Granada being one of the favored destinations and others being Leon and the Pacific coastline around San Juan del Sur. The pleasant weather, low property taxes and reasonable cost of living is a big drawcard for people who have had their retirement nest eggs depleted by the economic woes in their home countries. In fact Nicaragua was listed as one of the top ten retirement destinations in the world by the US News and World Report.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in and around Granada. The Mombacho Beach Club is located inside the Hotel Spa Granada and features the largest swimming pool in the city. For those who prefer swimming in natural water and enjoy water sports such as sailing and kayaking, Lake Cocibolca is not too far away. Boat tours around the hundreds of little islands in the lake is also a lovely way to pass the time soaking up the sun and fresh air, and the truly adventurous may want to take a canopy tour through the rainforest on the slopes of Mombacho Volcano. Certainly there is plenty to see and do when visiting the Nicaraguan city of Granada.
